Forget everything you think you know about fried chicken. This isn't your grandma's Southern recipe; this is Chinese Fried Chicken, a symphony of crispy, golden-brown skin enveloping succulent, juicy meat. We're talking a completely different level of flavor, achieved through a unique double-frying technique and a marinade that's both savory and subtly sweet. Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that will redefine your expectations of this classic dish. The secret lies in the meticulous preparation and precise cooking, resulting in a texture that's unbelievably addictive.
This recipe takes you beyond the basic fried chicken experience, incorporating authentic Chinese techniques and ingredients for a truly unforgettable taste. From the perfectly balanced marinade to the expertly crafted breading, each step is crucial in achieving that perfect crunch and tender interior. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step process outlined below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Grill/Rack
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: 3 pieces (approx. 1800g)
- Salt: 1 tablespoon
- Water: 1 liter
- Crushed garlic: 5-6 cloves
- Shallots
- Spring onions: 2 stalks
- Ginger: 5 pieces/slices
- Black peppercorns: 1 tablespoon
- Brown sugar: 3 tablespoons
- White soy sauce: 10 tablespoons
- Chinese five spice powder: 1 tablespoon
- Vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Prepare the Chicken
- Season chicken thighs with 1 tablespoon of salt on both sides. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2. Boil Chicken in Aromatic Broth
- In a pot, boil 1 liter of water with crushed garlic, shallots, spring onions, ginger, black peppercorns, brown sugar, white soy sauce, and Chinese five spice powder. Boil until sugar dissolves.
- Add the chicken thighs to the boiling mixture. Boil for 20-30 minutes with the lid closed, flipping halfway through and basting with the sauce.
Step 3. Dry and Rest the Chicken
- Remove the chicken and let it rest on a grill to drain excess water and air dry.
Step 4. Deep Fry until Crispy
- Once the chicken is dry, fry it in a moderate amount of vegetable oil for 10-15 minutes, until the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
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Tips
- Don't overcook the chicken while frying, or it will become dry and tough. Watch carefully!
- This recipe results in a salty-sweet chicken with a beautiful orange color, similar in taste and aroma to roast duck.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in or boneless chicken for this recipe?
Both work great! Bone-in chicken will be slightly more flavorful and juicy, while boneless is quicker to cook and easier to eat.
2. How do I achieve extra crispy skin?
Ensure your chicken is completely dry before breading. A double-fry, with a lower temperature first fry and a higher temperature second fry, helps create extra crispy skin.
This Chinese-style fried chicken recipe delivers a truly exceptional culinary experience, surpassing traditional fried chicken in both flavor and texture. The combination of crispy skin and incredibly tender meat is a testament to the power of careful preparation and authentic techniques. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite dipping sauces and savor every bite!